A rat gave birth – what should I do? - briefly
Provide a warm, secure nest, fresh water, and high‑protein food for the mother, and check that the newborns are nursing and staying warm. Contact a rodent‑experienced veterinarian for detailed neonatal care advice.
A rat gave birth – what should I do? - in detail
When a pet rat has just delivered a litter, the priority is to protect the mother and her newborns while providing an environment that supports their natural development.
First, confirm that the mother is not distressed. If she appears overly aggressive, frightened, or is abandoning the pups, intervene by gently separating her from the nest and placing her in a quiet, secure cage with fresh bedding.
Provide a deep layer of soft, absorbent material such as shredded paper or aspen shavings. The nest should be warm, dry, and free of drafts. Maintain ambient temperature between 70 °F and 75 °F; a heat lamp or heating pad set on low can be used, but ensure the mother can move away if she becomes too warm.
Monitor the litter without handling for the first 48 hours. Observe the mother’s behavior: regular nursing, grooming, and a clean nest indicate normal progress. Any signs of neglect, excessive licking of pups, or foul odor suggest infection or stress and warrant veterinary consultation.
Feeding the mother is critical. Offer high‑calorie, protein‑rich food such as boiled egg, mealworms, or commercial rat breeder diet. Fresh water must be always available. Supplement her diet with small amounts of fruit or vegetables to ensure adequate nutrition for milk production.
If pups need to be moved—due to a damaged nest, aggression, or health concerns—use gloved hands, support the entire body, and place them in a secondary nest with the same bedding and temperature conditions. Avoid excessive handling; limit contact to necessary interventions.
Health checks should be performed daily after the first two days. Look for swelling, discharge, or discoloration in the mother’s mammary glands. Examine pups for uniform size, pink skin, and active movement. Any abnormalities, such as failure to thrive or respiratory distress, require immediate veterinary attention.
Wean the young at three to four weeks of age. Gradually introduce solid foods while continuing to provide the mother’s diet. Separate the pups from the mother once they are fully independent to prevent competition for resources.
Maintain strict hygiene. Replace soiled bedding weekly, disinfect cages with a mild, non‑toxic cleaner, and wash feeding dishes daily. Prevent other pets from accessing the breeding area to reduce stress and disease risk.
If the breeding was unplanned, consider rehoming surplus pups responsibly. Contact reputable rat rescue groups or experienced breeders who can provide appropriate care.
Following these steps ensures the mother’s well‑being, promotes healthy development of the litter, and minimizes the need for emergency intervention.